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<br />After discussion, Councilmember Buscher indicated she would support a work session review to <br />ensure the policy was carefully considered. <br /> <br />Mayor Heineman acknowledged the proposal but expressed concern about limiting elected <br />officials' ability to speak on issues they believe affect the community. Overall, the discussion <br />focused on whether the City Council should formally establish guidelines restricting its <br />involvement in political or symbolic matters that are not directly related to municipal government <br />responsibilities. <br /> <br />Motion failed. Voting Yes: Councilmembers Buscher, Peters and Riley. Voting No: Mayor <br />Heineman, Councilmembers Olson, Specht and Stewart. <br /> <br />8. MAYOR, COUNCIL, AND STAFF INPUT <br />8.01 Legislative Update <br /> <br />City Administrator Hagen provided a brief legislative update and highlighted a major <br />accomplishment related to one of the City's long-standing legislative priorities: establishing an <br />additional river crossing in the northwest metro area. He explained that Ramsey partnered with <br />Champlin, Dayton, and Maple Grove to advocate for $2.9 million in state funding to begin studying <br />a future river crossing and associated transportation network improvements that would connect the <br />Armstrong Interchange on Highway 10 to Interstate 94 and potentially Highway 610. The funding <br />was approved, and he further reported that the project was also included on the federal funding <br />request lists of Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith for an additional $2 million. If secured, <br />the combined $4.9 million would fund environmental review, traffic analysis, corridor planning, <br />and right-of-way preservation efforts needed before seeking future construction funding. <br /> <br />Councilmember Peters promoted the upcoming Dash & Dine 5K. <br /> <br />Councilmember Buscher welcomed the City's new Fire Chief and expressed enthusiasm about <br />working together on future initiatives, including obtaining a second set of turnout gear for <br />firefighters. She also highlighted a recent work session discussion regarding wage theft, labor <br />trafficking, and labor practices in the construction industry, noting that productive collaboration <br />had emerged from those conversations. <br /> <br />Mayor Heineman echoed the welcome to the new Fire Chief. He reflected on the evening's <br />discussions, emphasizing that while Council debates can be challenging, members remain <br />committed to working together for residents. He encouraged the community to continue enjoying <br />recent park improvements, including the splash pad and fishing pier. He praised City staff for their <br />ongoing work to provide high-quality services and amenities. <br />9. ADJOURNMENT <br /> <br />Motion by Councilmember Riley, seconded by Councilmember Stewart, to adjourn the meeting. <br /> <br />City Council /May 26, 2026 <br />Page 18 of 19 <br /> <br />